Multi-Orientation Targeting Set for MRI Biopsy Device

ABSTRACT

A biopsy device targeting set includes a vertical member, a carriage that is vertically movable along the vertical member, and a cradle coupled with the carriage. The cradle has a pair of substantially perpendicular mounting arms. Each mounting arm has a recess that may receive a rail of the carriage, such that the cradle may be mounted to the same rail in different orientations. Each mounting arm also has a biopsy device mounting feature, which may be a recess or a rail. The biopsy device mounting feature is configured to engage with a complementary feature of a biopsy device, such that a biopsy device may be mounted to either mounting arm. A z-stop feature is operable to selectively restrict longitudinal motion along either or both of the biopsy device mounting features. The targeting set may be used with a biopsy device in an MRI environment.

Biopsy samples have been obtained in a variety of ways in variousmedical procedures using a variety of devices. Biopsy devices may beused under stereotactic guidance, ultrasound guidance, MRI guidance, PEMguidance, BSGI guidance, or otherwise. Merely exemplary biopsy devicesare disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,526,822, entitled “Method and Apparatusfor Automated Biopsy and Collection of Soft Tissue,” issued Jun. 18,1996; U.S. Pat. No. 6,086,544, entitled “Control Apparatus for anAutomated Surgical Biopsy Device,” issued Jul. 11, 2000; U.S. Pub. No.2003/0109803, entitled “MRI Compatible Surgical Biopsy Device,”published Jun. 12, 2003; U.S. Pub. No. 2007/0118048, entitled “RemoteThumbwheel for a Surgical Biopsy Device,” published May 24, 2007; U.S.Pub. No. 2008/0214955, entitled “Presentation of Biopsy Sample by BiopsyDevice,” filed Nov. 20, 2007; U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser.No. 60/869,736, entitled “Biopsy System,” filed Dec. 13, 2006; U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/874,792, entitled “BiopsySample Storage,” filed Dec. 13, 2006; and U.S. Pub. No. 2008/0195066,entitled “Revolving Tissue Sample Holder For Biopsy Device,” publishedAug. 14, 2008. The disclosure of each of the above-cited U.S. Patents,U.S. Patent Application Publications, and U.S. Provisional PatentApplications is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

Some biopsy systems may provide a probe assembly having an attached orintegral needle. Such biopsy systems may also be used with a separatetargeting cannula and obturator, which are used to create the channelthrough the tissue to a desired biopsy site. In some such biopsysystems, the obturator may be removed once the cannula is positioned intissue, and the needle of the probe assembly may be inserted through thecannula to reach the biopsy site. The tissue sample may then be pulledthrough aligning apertures in the cannula and needle into an axial lumenof the needle. A cutter may then travel through the axial lumen to severthe tissue sample, which may be communicated proximally through a lumendefined by the cutter.

In some other biopsy systems, a probe assembly may have a cutter butlack an integral needle. For instance, a detachable needle may servesame the functions that would otherwise be served by two separatecomponents—a targeting cannula and a needle—as noted above. In some suchsystems, the detachable needle may be used with an obturator to create achannel through tissue to a desired biopsy site. The obturator may beremoved once the detachable needle is positioned within the tissue, andthe probe assembly may be coupled with the detachable needle. The cuttermay be translated through the axial lumen of the needle to sever atissue sample from tissue protruding through a transverse apertureformed in the needle. The tissue sample may then be communicatedproximally through a lumen defined by the cutter.

Regardless of whether a detachable needle or integral needle withseparate cannula is used, it may be desirable to provide some degree ofguidance and/or fixation for such a detachable needle or for such acannula that is separate from a needle that is integral with a biopsyprobe.

While several systems and methods have been made and used for obtaininga biopsy sample, it is believed that no one prior to the inventors hasmade or used the invention described in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims which particularly pointout and distinctly claim the invention, it is believed the presentinvention will be better understood from the following description ofcertain examples taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Inthe drawings, like numerals represent like elements throughout theseveral views.

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary biopsy systemtargeting set and an exemplary biopsy device;

FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of the biopsy device of FIG. 1 coupledwith the targeting set of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary biopsy systemtargeting set, with an obturator inserted in a targeting cannula;

FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of the targeting set of FIG. 3, withthe obturator removed, and with a biopsy device staged for coupling withthe targeting set;

FIG. 5 depicts a perspective view of the targeting set of FIG. 3 withthe biopsy device of FIG. 4 coupled thereto;

FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary cradle assembly for abiopsy device targeting set, with various biopsy device couplingadapters;

FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary cradle assemblyfor a biopsy device targeting set;

FIG. 8 depicts an end view of the cradle assembly of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 depicts a top plan view of the cradle assembly of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 depicts an exploded perspective view of the cradle assembly ofFIG. 7;

FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary cradle assemblyfor a biopsy device targeting set;

FIG. 12 depicts an end view of the cradle assembly of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 depicts a top plan view of the cradle assembly of FIG. I1;

FIG. 14 depicts an exploded perspective view of the cradle assembly ofFIG. 11;

FIG. 15 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary cradle assemblyfor a biopsy device targeting set;

FIG. 16 depicts an end view of the cradle assembly of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 depicts an exploded perspective view of the cradle assembly ofFIG. 15;

FIG. 18 depicts a partial cross-sectional side view of the cradleassembly of FIG. 15, showing a ratcheting mechanism;

FIG. 19 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary cradle assemblyfor a biopsy device targeting set;

FIG. 20 depicts an exploded perspective view of the cradle assembly ofFIG. 19;

FIG. 21 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary cradle assemblyfor a biopsy device targeting set;

FIG. 22 is an exploded view of a pawl and ratcheting z-stop assembly ofthe cradle assembly of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is a top view of the cradle assembly of FIG. 21, showing theratcheting z-stop assembly in a locked configuration;

FIG. 24 is a top view of the cradle assembly of FIG. 21, showing theratcheting z-stop assembly in an unlocked configuration;

FIG. 25 shows a partial perspective view of an exemplary biopsy probe ina preliminary stage of engagement with an exemplary targeting set;

FIG. 26 shows a partial perspective view of the biopsy probe andtargeting set of FIG. 25, in a subsequent stage of engagement;

FIG. 27 shows a partial perspective view of another exemplary biopsyprobe in a preliminary stage of engagement with an exemplary targetingset;

FIG. 28 shows a partial perspective view of the biopsy probe andtargeting set of FIG. 27, in a subsequent stage of engagement;

FIGS. 29A through 29H are a series of end views, showing variousconfigurations in which a targeting set may be provided.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of certain examples should not be used tolimit the scope of the present invention. Other examples, features,aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the invention will becomeapparent to those skilled in the art from the following description,which is by way of illustration, one of the best modes contemplated forcarrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention iscapable of other different and obvious aspects, all without departingfrom the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions should beregarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

I. Overview of Exemplary Biopsy Device and Targeting Systems

Examples described herein relate to the acquisition of tissue samplesfrom a patient's breast with assistance of MRI imaging. It should beunderstood, however, that various examples described herein may be usedto acquire tissue samples from various other locations on or in apatient. Similarly, it should be understood that examples describedherein may be used in combination with any other suitable imagingmodality, including but not limited to x-ray, ultrasound, PEM, BSGI, orany other suitable imaging modality, if not combinations of variousimaging modalities.

Examples described herein refer to certain biopsy devices (10, 50, 75),certain aspects of which will be described in greater detail below.However, it should be understood that any other suitable biopsy devicemay be incorporated into the exemplary systems, devices, and methods ofuse described herein, and vice versa. By way of example only, examplesdescribed herein may be used with any biopsy device or other componentdescribed in U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. [FBTDOCKET NO. 0021680.END6465USNP], entitled “MECHANICAL TISSUE SAMPLEHOLDER INDEXING DEVICE,” filed on even date herewith, the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated by reference herein; U.S. Non-Provisional patentapplication Ser. No. [FBT DOCKET NO. 0021680.END6468USNP], entitled“BIOPSY DEVICE WITH SLIDING CUTTER COVER,” filed on even date herewith,the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein; U.S.Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. [FBT DOCKET NO.0021680.END6471USNP], entitled “BIOPSY DEVICE WITH DISCRETE TISSUECHAMBERS,” filed on even date herewith, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein; U.S. Non-Provisional patentapplication Ser. No. [FBT DOCKET NO. 0021680.END6473USNP], entitled“TISSUE BIOPSY DEVICE WITH CENTRAL THUMBWHEEL,” filed on even dateherewith, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein;or U.S. Pub. No. 2008/0195066, entitled “Revolving Tissue Sample HolderFor Biopsy Device,” published Aug. 14, 2008, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein. Still other suitable biopsy devices orother components that may be used with examples described herein will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

It should also be understood that systems, devices, components, andmethods of use herein may be incorporated into a variety of structuraland methodological settings. By way of example only, any suitableteaching of U.S. Pub. No. 2005/0277829, entitled “MRI BIOPSY APPARATUSINCORPORATING A SLEEVE AND A MULTI-FUNCTION OBTURATOR,” published Dec.15, 2005, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein,may be incorporated into any of the present examples; or any of theteachings herein may be incorporated into any of the examples disclosedin that U.S. Patent Application Publication. Similarly, any suitableteaching of U.S. Pub. No. 2007/0167736, entitled “MRI BIOPSY APPARATUSINCORPORATING AN IMAGEABLE PENETRATING PORTION,” published Jul. 19,2007, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein, maybe incorporated into any of the present examples; or any of theteachings herein may be incorporated into any of the examples disclosedin that U.S. Patent Application Publication. Likewise, any suitableteaching of U.S. Pub. No. 2003/0199785, entitled “LOCALIZATION MECHANISMFOR AN MRI COMPATIBLE BIOPSY DEVICE,” published Oct. 23, 2003, thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein, may beincorporated into any of the present examples; or any of the teachingsherein may be incorporated into any of the examples disclosed in thatU.S. Patent Application Publication. As another merely illustrativeexample, any suitable teaching of U.S. Pub. No. 2007/0255170, entitled“BIOPSY CANNULA ADJUSTABLE DEPTH STOP,” published Nov. 1, 2007, thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein, may beincorporated into any of the present examples; or any of the teachingsherein may be incorporated into any of the examples disclosed in thatU.S. Patent Application Publication. As yet another merely illustrativeexample, any suitable teaching of U.S. Pub. No. 2008/0195066, entitled“Revolving Tissue Sample Holder For Biopsy Device,” published Aug. 14,2008, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein, maybe incorporated into any of the present examples; or any of theteachings herein may be incorporated into any of the examples disclosedin that U.S. Patent Application Publication. Suitable ways in whichteachings may be interchanged either way among any of the above-citedU.S. Patent Application Publications and the disclosure herein will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the disclosureherein.

While not shown, any biopsy device (10, 50, 75) described herein may becoupled with a vacuum control module. Such a vacuum control module maybe used to provide vacuum, pressurized air, saline, venting, electricalpower, mechanical rotary power (e.g., via a drive cable), controlsignals, or any other suitable provision to biopsy device (10, 50, 75).An exemplary vacuum control module and ways in which a vacuum controlmodule may be used with a biopsy device (10, 50, 75) are disclosed inU.S. Pub. No. 2008/0195066, entitled “Revolving Tissue Sample Holder ForBiopsy Device,” published Aug. 14, 2008, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein. It should also be understood that aninterface may be provided between such a vacuum control module andbiopsy device (10, 50, 75). For instance, such an interface may (or maynot) be desired when biopsy device (10, 50, 75) will be used in an MRIsetting. An example of such an interface that may be used with a vacuumcontrol module and with biopsy device (10, 50, 75) is disclosed in U.S.Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. [FBT DOCKET NO.0021680.END6466USNP], entitled “CONTROL MODULE INTERFACE,” filed on evendate herewith, the disclosure of which is incorporated by referenceherein. Still other suitable devices and components that may be usedwith biopsy device (10, 50, 75) or with any other device or componentdescribed herein will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the artin view of the teachings herein.

A. Exemplary Biopsy Probe with Detachable Needle and Targeting System

FIGS. 1-2 show an exemplary biopsy probe (10) that couples with adetachable needle (30). Needle (30) is coupled with a cradle (500),which is coupled with a targeting pedestal (100). Biopsy probe (10) hasa tissue sample holder (12) at its proximal end and a needle engagementmechanism (14) at its distal end. Needle (30) has a thumbwheel (32) atits proximal end and an integral tissue piercing tip (34) at its distalend. Needle (30) also has a transverse tissue receiving aperture (36)proximal to tip (34). Needle engagement mechanism (14) is configured toreleasably couple with thumbwheel (32), as shown in FIG. 2. Once thiscoupling is accomplished, a hollow cutter (not shown) within probe (10)may be advanced within a lumen defined by needle (30) to sever tissueprotruding through aperture (36). The severed tissue sample may then becommunicated proximally through a lumen defined by the cutter to reachtissue sample holder (12). Biopsy probe (10) and needle (30) may furtherbe constructed and used in accordance with any of the teachings of U.S.Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. [FBT DOCKET NO.0021680.END6468USNP], entitled “BIOPSY DEVICE WITH SLIDING CUTTERCOVER,” filed on even date herewith, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein. Alternatively, biopsy probe (10) mayhave any other suitable features, components, configurations,functionalities, or methods of operation.

Pedestal (100) of the present example comprises a base (102), an uprightmember (104), and a carriage (106). Carriage (106) is movable verticallyalong upright member (104), and includes a ratcheting mechanism (notshown) to selectively secure the vertical position of carriage (106)relative to upright member (104). Rails (108) are mounted to either sideof carriage (106). As shown, cradle (500) is configured to mount tocarriage (106) by engaging rail (108). For instance, a recess (502) ofcradle (500) may receive rail (108), as will be described in greaterdetail below, such that cradle (500) may be slid onto rail (108) and beremovably secured thereto. By way of example only, pedestal (100) maycomprise a conventional pedestal assembly (or any component thereof)that is part of a breast biopsy MRI guidance system by Invivo Corp. ofOrlando, Fla. Of course, any other suitable type of pedestal (100) maybe used.

Cradle (500) of the present example includes a pair of rails (504). Aneedle mount (506) is slidingly engaged with rail (504). Needle (30) issecured to needle mount (506). The longitudinal position of needle mount(506) along rail (504) may thus be adjusted to select a desired depth ofinsertion for needle (30). Additional aspects of cradle (500) will bedescribed in greater detail below with reference to FIGS. 15-18, whileother aspects of cradle (500) will be apparent to those of ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

While cradle (500) is shown in this example as being used in conjunctionwith pedestal (100), it should be understood that any other cradle (200,300, 400, 600, 700, 800) described herein may be used in conjunctionwith pedestal (100). Cradle (500) may also be used with some device orcomponent other than pedestal (100), including but not limited totargeting grid assembly (150) described below. Similarly, any suitablebiopsy device, including but not limited to any biopsy device describedherein (10, 50, 75), may be used in conjunction with pedestal (100)and/or in conjunction with any cradle (200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700,800) described herein. Suitable combinations of any of these componentswill be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein.

B. Exemplary Biopsy Probe with Cannula and Targeting System

FIGS. 3-5 show another exemplary biopsy probe (50), which couples with atargeting cannula (70). An obturator (90) is also included in thisexample. Targeting cannula (70) is coupled with a cradle (300), which iscoupled with a targeting grid assembly (150). Biopsy probe (50) has atissue sample holder (52) at its proximal end and an integral needle(54) at its distal end. Needle (54) has a tip (56) at its distal end anda transverse tissue receiving aperture (58) proximal to tip (56). Tip(56) may be blunt, bladed, or have any other suitable features orproperties. Biopsy probe (50) also has a distal thumbwheel (60) and acentral thumbwheel (62), each of which is in communication with needle(54), and each of which is manually operable to rotate needle (54) abouta longitudinal axis defined by needle (54). Such rotation may be used toselectively orient aperture (58) at a desired angular position about thelongitudinal axis.

Targeting cannula (70) has a thumbwheel (72) at its proximal end and anopening (74) at its distal end. Targeting cannula (70) also has atransverse tissue receiving aperture (76) proximal to opening (74).Thumbwheel (72) is manually operable to rotate targeting cannula (70)about a longitudinal axis defined by targeting cannula (70). Suchrotation may be used to selectively orient aperture (76) at a desiredangular position about the longitudinal axis. Furthermore, thumbwheel(72) is configured to couple with distal thumbwheel (60) of biopsy probe(50) when biopsy probe (50) is coupled with targeting cannula (70) asdescribed in greater detail below with reference to FIG. 5. Whenthumbwheel (72) is coupled with distal thumbwheel (60), thumbwheels (60,72) may rotate unitarily together. Any thumbwheel (60, 62, 72) may bemanually rotated to concomitantly rotate needle (54) and cannula (70)about a common longitudinal axis, such as to selectively orientapertures (58, 76) at a desired angular position about the longitudinalaxis.

As shown in FIGS. 3-5, targeting cannula (70) is configured toselectively receive obturator (90) or needle (54). Obturator (90) has agrip (92) at its proximal end and an integral tissue piercing tip (94)at its distal end. As shown in FIG. 3, obturator (90) is configured tofit within targeting cannula (70), such that tissue piercing tip (94) ofobturator (90) protrudes through distal opening (74) of targetingcannula (70). By way of example only, obturator (90) and targetingcannula (70) may together be inserted into a patient's breast. Obturator(90) may then be withdrawn from targeting cannula (70), as shown in FIG.4. Needle (54) may then be inserted into targeting cannula (70), asshown in FIG. 5, such that transverse aperture (58) of needle (54)substantially aligns with transverse aperture (76) of targeting cannula(70). Of course, needle (54) and/or targeting cannula (70) may berotated (e.g., by manually rotating a thumbwheel (60, 62, 72)) beforeneedle (54) is inserted into targeting cannula (70), such as to alignapertures (58, 76) at a common angular position about the commonlongitudinal axis before thumbwheel (72) is coupled with distalthumbwheel (60).

Once needle (54) is inserted in targeting cannula (70), and apertures(58, 76) are oriented at the desired angular position, a hollow cutter(not shown) within probe (50) may be advanced within a lumen defined byneedle (54) to sever tissue protruding through apertures (58, 76). Thesevered tissue sample may then be communicated proximally through alumen defined by the cutter to reach tissue sample holder (52), such asunder the influence of a vacuum and/or pressurized air. Biopsy probe(50) and needle (54) may further be constructed and used in accordancewith any of the teachings of U.S. Non-Provisional patent applicationSer. No. [FBT DOCKET NO. 0021680.END6473USNP], entitled “TISSUE BIOPSYDEVICE WITH CENTRAL THUMBWHEEL,” filed on even date herewith, thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. Alternatively,biopsy probe (50) may have any other suitable features, components,configurations, functionalities, or methods of operation.

Targeting grid assembly (150) of the present example comprises a grid(152) and a mount (160) coupled with grid (152). Grid (152) comprises aplurality of vertical slats (152), vertical positioning indicia (153),and horizontal positioning indicia (154). Mount (160) is operable totranslate horizontally across grid (152). Indicia (154) may assist inpositioning mount (160) at an appropriate horizontal location. Acarriage (162) is movable vertically along mount (160), and includes aratcheting mechanism (not shown) to selectively secure the verticalposition of carriage (162) relative to mount (160). Indicia (153) mayassist in positioning carriage (162) at an appropriate verticallocation. Rails (164) are mounted to either side of carriage (162). Asshown, cradle (300) is configured to mount to carriage (162) by engagingrail (164). For instance, a recess (302) of cradle (300) may receiverail (164), as will be described in greater detail below, such thatcradle (300) may be slid onto rail (164) and be removably securedthereto. By way of example only, targeting grid assembly (150) maycomprise a conventional targeting grid assembly (or any componentthereof) that is part of a breast biopsy MRI guidance system, includinga breast coil, by Invivo Corp. of Orlando, Fla. Of course, any othersuitable type of targeting grid assembly (150) may be used.

Cradle (300) of the present example includes a rail (304). A cannulamount (306) is slidingly engaged with rail (304). Cannula (70) issecured to cannula mount (306). The longitudinal position of cannulamount (306) along rail (304) may thus be adjusted to select a desireddepth of insertion for cannula (70). Additional aspects of cradle (300)will be described in greater detail below with reference to FIGS. 7-10,while other aspects of cradle (300) will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

While cradle (300) is shown in this example as being used in conjunctionwith targeting grid assembly (150), it should be understood that anyother cradle (200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800) described herein may be usedin conjunction with targeting grid assembly (150). Cradle (300) may alsobe used with some device or component other than targeting grid assembly(150), including but not limited to pedestal (100) described above.Similarly, any suitable biopsy device, including but not limited to anybiopsy device described herein (10, 50, 75), may be used in conjunctionwith targeting grid assembly (150) and/or in conjunction with any cradle(200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800) described herein. Suitablecombinations of any of these components will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

II. Exemplary Engagement Between Biopsy Probe and Targeting Cradle

While several examples of cradles (200, 300, 400) will be discussedbelow in the context of targeting cannulas (70) and biopsy devices (50)that have an integral needle (54), it should be understood that cradles(200, 300, 400) may also be used with detachable needles (30) and biopsydevices (10) that lack an integral needle (54). Furthermore, it shouldbe understood that any of the below described cradles (200, 300, 400)may be subject to any desired addition, omission, variation,modification, substitution, supplementation, or method of use.

A. Exemplary Modular Cradle

FIG. 6 shows an exemplary modular cradle (200). Cradle (200) includes abase member (202), which is configured to couple with various adapters(240, 260, 280). Base member (202) includes a recess (204), which mayslidingly engage a rail (108, 164) of pedestal (100), targeting gridassembly (150), or any other structure. A resilient arm (206) extendsadjacent to recess (204), and includes a protrusion (208) that isconfigured to selectively secure base member (202) relative to rail(108, 164). For instance, an operator may slide rail (108, 164) intorecess (204), and protrusion (208) may deflect away from rail (108, 164)then “snap” into a complementary recess (not shown) formed in rail (108,164), such that protrusion (208) and the recess formed in rail (108,164) restrict longitudinal motion of base member (202) relative to rail(108, 164). To remove base member (202) from rail (108, 164), anoperator may simply depress arm (206) to disengage protrusion (208) fromthe recess formed in rail (108, 164), and pull base member (202) awayfrom rail (108, 164). Of course, any other suitable components,features, or configurations may be used to selectively secure basemember (202) relative to rail (108, 164).

Base member (202) also presents a rail (210), with which a cannula mount(306), needle mount (506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50) may be engaged.Rail (210) has a protruding “T” cross-section in this example, though itwill be appreciated that any other suitable configuration may be used(e.g., dovetail, etc.). Furthermore, rail (210) may be substituted orsupplemented with a “T”-shaped (or otherwise shaped) recess (not shown),which may be configured to receive a complementary rail (not shown) of acannula mount (306), needle mount (506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50).In the present example, base member (202) also includes a z-stop (212),which has opposing rail engagement members (214). Z-stop (212) iscoupled with a screw gear (216), which has a rotation knob (218). Itwill be appreciated that an operator may manually rotate rotation knob(218) to selectively position z-stop (212) along the length of screwgear (216). As shown, one of rail engagement members (214) is engagedwith rail (210). Such engagement may prevent z-stop (212) from rotatingas screw gear (216) is rotated to translate z-stop (212) along screwgear (216).

By way of example only, z-stop (212) may be used to control the depth atwhich a needle (30) or combined obturator (90) and targeting cannula(70) may be inserted into a patient. For instance, before coupling acannula mount (306), needle mount (506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50)with rail (210), an operator may rotate knob (218) to set z-stop (212)at a desired longitudinal position along screw gear (216). The operatormay then slide a cannula mount (306), needle mount (506), or biopsydevice (10, 50) along rail (210) until a cannula mount (306), needlemount (506), or biopsy device (10, 50) engages z-stop (212), which mayprevent a cannula mount (306), needle mount (506), or biopsy device (10,50) from being advanced any further. Other mechanisms that may be usedto restrict longitudinal movement of a cannula mount (306), needle mount(506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50) will be described in greater detailbelow, while other suitable alternatives will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

A support member (220) is also secured to the distal end of base member(202). Support member (220) includes a bushing (222), which defines anopening (224) configured to receive needle (30) or targeting cannula(70). To the extent that needle (30) or targeting cannula (70) has anon-circular cross-section, opening (224) may be shaped to accommodatesuch a cross-section. Furthermore, bushing (222) may be rotatable withinsupport member (220), such that bushing (222) may be rotated toaccommodate needle (30) or targeting cannula (70) during insertion ofneedle (30) or targeting cannula (70) through opening (224); and torotate with needle (30) or targeting cannula (70) after needle (30) ortargeting cannula (70) has been inserted through opening (224). Supportmember (220) may provide additional support to a needle (30) ortargeting cannula (70) that is coupled with support member (220). Forinstance, support member (220) may reduce deflection of needle (30) ortargeting cannula (70) when z-stop (212) (and, hence, cannula mount(306) or needle mount (506)) is positioned relatively far from supportmember (220). Such reduction in deflection may be particularly desirableif an operator is attempting to insert a needle (30) or combinedobturator (90) and targeting cannula (70) along a straight line intodense tissue. In some versions, support member (220) is rigidly securedto base member (202). In some other versions, support member (220) isconfigured to selectively pivot relative to base member (202) (e.g., topivot it out of the way if z-stop (212) is advanced to a distal-mostposition). Of course, as with other components described herein, supportmember (220) is merely optional.

Base member (202) also has an adapter recess (230) in this example.Adapter recess (230) has a “L” shape, though it will be understood thatrecess (230) may have any other suitable shape. Adapter recess (230) isconfigured to receive a complementary rail (242, 262) of a selectedadapter (240, 260). Adapter (240) presents a mounting rail (244), withwhich a cannula mount (306), needle mount (506), and/or biopsy device(10, 50) may be engaged. For instance, with adapter (240) coupled withbase member (202), size/spacing considerations or other considerationsmight make rail (244) more ideal for mounting a cannula mount (306),needle mount (506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50) than rail (210) wouldbe. While rail (244) has a “T” shaped cross-section in this example, itshould be understood that any other suitable cross-sectionalconfiguration may be used.

Z-stop (212) may still be operated to restrict longitudinal movement ofa cannula mount (306), needle mount (506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50)along rail (244). For instance, the left rail engagement member (214)may still be engaged with rail (210) during such use. Alternatively, theleft rail engagement member (214) may be disengaged from rail (210),then z-stop (212) may be rotated about screw gear (216) to engage theright rail engagement member (214) with rail (244). Other ways in whichadapter (240) may be used will be apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art in view of the teachings herein.

As noted above, adapter (260) also has a rail (262) that may be slidinto recess (230) of base member (202). Adapter (260) provides its ownrecess (264), with which a cannula mount (306), needle mount (506),and/or biopsy device (10, 50) may be engaged. For instance, someversions of a cannula mount (306), needle mount (506), and/or biopsydevice (10, 50) may present a recess that complements rails (210, 244);while other versions of a cannula mount (306), needle mount (506),and/or biopsy device (10, 50) may present a rail that complements recess(264). Another exemplary use of recess (264) may include coupling with acomplementary rail (282) of adapter (280). Adapter (280) may alsopresent a mounting rail (284), with which a cannula mount (306), needlemount (506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50) may be engaged. Adapter (260)and/or the combination of adapter (260) with adapter (280) may thus beused in ways similar to those described above with respect to adapter(240). Of course, other suitable uses for adapters (240, 260, 280), aswell as other suitable configurations for and combinations of adapters(240, 260, 280), will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the artin view of the teachings herein.

While exemplary features, components, configurations, and methods ofoperation for cradle (200) have been described above, it should beunderstood that any suitable alternatives may be used. Suitablealternative features, components, configurations, and methods ofoperation for cradle (200) will be apparent to those of ordinary skillin the art in view of the teachings herein.

B. Exemplary Cradle with Slot Mounting

FIGS. 7-10 depict another exemplary cradle (300), along with anexemplary targeting cannula (70). Cradle (300) of this example includesunitary support arms (310, 320) that are substantially perpendicular toeach other. Each support arm (310, 320) has a recess (302), which mayslidingly engage a rail (108, 164) of pedestal (100), targeting gridassembly (150), or any other structure. A resilient arm (307) extendsadjacent to recess (302), and includes a protrusion (308) that isconfigured to selectively secure cradle (300) relative to rail (108,164). For instance, an operator may slide rail (108, 164) into eitherrecess (302), and protrusion (308) may deflect away from rail (108, 164)then “snap” into a complementary recess (not shown) formed in rail (108,164), such that protrusion (308) and the recess formed in rail (108,164) restrict longitudinal motion of cradle (300) relative to rail (108,164). To remove cradle (300) from rail (108, 164), an operator maysimply lift arm (307) to disengage protrusion (308) from the recessformed in rail (108, 164), and pull cradle (300) away from rail (108,164). Of course, any other suitable components, features, orconfigurations may be used to selectively secure cradle (300) relativeto rail (108, 164).

Each support arm (310, 320) also has a mounting recess (330), with whicha cannula mount (306), needle mount (506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50)may be engaged. Recess (330) has a “T” shape in this example, though itshould be understood that any other suitable shape may be used.Furthermore, recess (330) may be substituted or supplemented with a railor other structure or feature, if desired. As shown in FIGS. 7-9,cannula mount (306) has a rail (360) that complements recess (330), suchthat rail (360) is slidingly received in recess (330) in this example.It should also be understood that a biopsy device (10, 50) may also havea rail (not shown) that complements recess (330). In such versions,sliding engagement of such a rail with recess (330) may restrictmovement of a biopsy device (10, 50) relative to cradle (300); and mayalso provide structural support for biopsy device (10, 50). Havingneedle (54) of a biopsy device (10, 50) inserted in targeting cannula(70) may assist in guiding such a rail of biopsy device (10, 50) intorecess (330) of cradle (300). It should be understood that such a railof a biopsy device (10, 50) need not necessarily be engaged with thesame recess (330) as cannula mount (306), though they may be engagedwith the same recess (330) in some instances.

A z-stop (312) is also coupled with cradle (300) in this example. Z-stop(312) has a pair of arms (314) that are substantially perpendicular toeach other. Each arm (314) has a recess engagement member (315). Asshown, each recess engagement member (315) is engaged with acorresponding recess (330). Z-stop (312) is coupled with a screw gear(316), which has a rotation knob (318). It will be appreciated that anoperator may manually rotate rotation knob (318) to selectively positionz-stop (312) along the length of screw gear (316).

By way of example only, z-stop (312) may be used to control the depth atwhich a needle (30) or combined obturator (90) and targeting cannula(70) may be inserted into a patient. For instance, before coupling acannula mount (306), needle mount (506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50)with recess (330), an operator may rotate knob (318) to set z-stop (312)at a desired longitudinal position along screw gear (316). The operatormay then slide a cannula mount (306), needle mount (506), or biopsydevice (10, 50) along recess (330) until a cannula mount (306), needlemount (506), or biopsy device (10, 50) engages z-stop (312), which mayprevent a cannula mount (306), needle mount (506), or biopsy device (10,50) from being advanced any further. Other mechanisms that may be usedto restrict longitudinal movement of a cannula mount (306), needle mount(506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50) will be described in greater detailbelow, while other suitable alternatives will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

In the present example, and as shown in FIG. 9, cannula mount (306)includes a resilient engagement tab (317), which is configured toselectively engage arm (314) of z-stop (312). Tab (317) includes aramped underside (309), such that as cannula mount (306) is advancedtoward z-stop arm (314), ramped underside (309) “rides” z-stop arm (314)to deflect tab (317) away from z-stop arm (314). When cannula mount(306) is sufficiently advanced further, tab (317) resiliently “snaps”over z-stop arm (314), providing resistance to proximal retraction ofcannula mount (306) relative to z-stop arm (314). When an operatordesires to remove cannula mount (306) from cradle (300), the operatormay simply lift tab (317) to disengage z-stop arm (314), then pullcannula mount (306) away from z-stop arm (314). Of course, any othersuitable components, features, or configurations may be used toselectively secure cannula mount (306) relative to z-stop arm (314).

A support member (350) is also secured to the distal end of cradle(300). Support member (350) includes a bushing (352), which defines anopening (354) configured to receive targeting cannula (70). Of course, aneedle (30) or other structure may be inserted through opening (354).Bushing (352) is rotatable within support member (350), such thatbushing (352) may be rotated to accommodate targeting cannula (70)during insertion of targeting cannula (70) through opening (354); and torotate with targeting cannula (70) after targeting cannula (70) has beeninserted through the opening. Support member (350) may provideadditional support to targeting cannula (70) that is coupled withsupport member (350). For instance, support member (350) may reducedeflection of targeting cannula (70) when z-stop (312) (and, hence,cannula mount (306)) is positioned relatively far from support member(350). Such reduction in deflection may be particularly desirable if anoperator is attempting to insert a combined obturator (90) and targetingcannula (70) along a straight line into dense tissue.

In the present example, support member (350) is rigidly secured tocradle (300). In particular, each support arm (310, 320) has a supportmember rail (360) extending therefrom. Support member (350) has acomplementary recess (362), such that support member (350) may be slidonto either rail (360). While support member rail (360) and recess (362)have complementary “L” shapes in this example, it should be understoodthat any other suitable shape may be used. Furthermore, while cannulamount (306) and support member (350) are shown as being coupled withsupport arm (310) in this example, it should be understood that cannulamount (306) and/or support member (350) may alternatively be coupledwith support arm (320). In some other versions, support member (350) isconfigured to selectively pivot relative to cradle (300) (e.g., to pivotit out of the way if z-stop (312) is advanced to a distal-mostposition). Of course, as with other components described herein, supportmember (350) is merely optional.

While exemplary features, components, configurations, and methods ofoperation for cradle (300) have been described above, it should beunderstood that any suitable alternatives may be used. Suitablealternative features, components, configurations, and methods ofoperation for cradle (300) will be apparent to those of ordinary skillin the art in view of the teachings herein.

C. Exemplary Cradle with Rail Mounting

FIGS. 11-14 depict another exemplary cradle (400), along with exemplarytargeting cannula (70). Cradle (400) of this example includes unitarysupport arms (410, 420) that are substantially perpendicular to eachother. Each support arm (410, 420) has a recess (402), which mayslidingly engage a rail (108, 164) of pedestal (100), targeting gridassembly (150), or any other structure. A resilient arm (407) extendsadjacent to recess (402), and includes a protrusion (408) that isconfigured to selectively secure cradle (400) relative to rail (108,164). For instance, an operator may slide rail (108, 164) into eitherrecess (402), and protrusion (408) may deflect away from rail (108, 164)then “snap” into a complementary recess (not shown) formed in rail (108,164), such that protrusion (408) and the recess formed in rail (108,164) restrict longitudinal motion of cradle (400) relative to rail (108,164). To remove cradle (400) from rail (108, 164), an operator maysimply lift arm (407) to disengage protrusion (408) from the recessformed in rail (108, 164), and pull cradle (400) away from rail (108,164). Of course, any other suitable components, features, orconfigurations may be used to selectively secure cradle (400) relativeto rail (108, 164).

Each support arm (410, 420) also has a mounting rail (430), with which acannula mount (306), needle mount (506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50)may be engaged. Rail (430) has a “T” shape in this example, though itshould be understood that any other suitable shape may be used.Furthermore, rail (430) may be substituted or supplemented with a recessor other structure or feature, if desired. As shown in FIGS. 7-9,cannula mount (306) has a recess (361) that complements rail (430), suchthat rail (460) is slidingly received in recess (361) in this example.It should also be understood that a biopsy device (10, 50) may also havea recess (80) that complements rail (330), as will be described ingreater detail below. In such versions, sliding engagement of rail (430)with recess (80) may restrict movement of a biopsy device (10, 50)relative to cradle (300); and may also provide structural support forbiopsy device (10, 50). Having needle (54) of a biopsy device (10, 50)inserted in targeting cannula (70) may assist in guiding such a rail ofbiopsy device (10, 50) into recess (330) of cradle (300). It should beunderstood that such a recess (80) of a biopsy device (10, 50) need notnecessarily be engaged with the same rail (430) as cannula mount (306),though they may be engaged with the same rail (430) in some instances.

A z-stop (412) is also coupled with cradle (400) in this example. Z-stop(412) has a pair of arms (414) that are substantially perpendicular toeach other. Each arm (414) has a rail engagement member (415). As shown,each rail engagement member (415) is engaged with a corresponding rail(430). Z-stop (412) is coupled with a screw gear (416), which has arotation knob (418). It will be appreciated that an operator maymanually rotate rotation knob (418) to selectively position z-stop (412)along the length of screw gear (416). Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 12,cradle (400) of this example includes indicia (401) configured to beread relative to a slot (419) on rotation knob (418). In particular, itwill be appreciated that the relationship between slot (419) and indicia(401) may be indicative of the longitudinal position of z-stop (412)along screw gear (416). Alternatively, any other suitable features maybe provided to indicate the longitudinal position of z-stop (412) alongscrew gear (416).

By way of example only, z-stop (412) may be used to control the depth atwhich a needle (30) or combined obturator (90) and targeting cannula(70) may be inserted into a patient. For instance, before coupling acannula mount (306), needle mount (506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50)with rail (430), an operator may rotate knob (418) to set z-stop (412)at a desired longitudinal position along screw gear (416). The operatormay then slide a cannula mount (306), needle mount (506), or biopsydevice (10, 50) along rail (430) until a cannula mount (306), needlemount (506), or biopsy device (10, 50) engages z-stop (412), which mayprevent a cannula mount (306), needle mount (506), or biopsy device (10,50) from being advanced any further. Other mechanisms that may be usedto restrict longitudinal movement of a cannula mount (306), needle mount(506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50) will be described in greater detailbelow, while other suitable alternatives will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

In the present example, and as shown in FIG. 13, cannula mount (306)includes a resilient engagement tab (317), which is configured toselectively engage arm (414) of z-stop (412). Tab (317) is configured tooperate with arm (414) in the same manner as described above withrespect to arm (312). Of course, any other suitable components,features, or configurations may be used to selectively secure cannulamount (306) relative to z-stop arm (414).

A support member (450) is also secured to the distal end of cradle(400). Support member (450) includes a bushing (452), which defines anopening (454) configured to receive targeting cannula (70). Of course, aneedle (30) or other structure may be inserted through opening (454).Bushing (452) is rotatable within support member (450), such thatbushing (452) may be rotated to accommodate targeting cannula (70)during insertion of targeting cannula (70) through opening (454); and torotate with targeting cannula (70) after targeting cannula (70) has beeninserted through the opening. Support member (450) may provideadditional support to targeting cannula (70) that is coupled withsupport member (450). For instance, support member (450) may reducedeflection of targeting cannula (70) when z-stop (412) (and, hence,cannula mount (306)) is positioned relatively far from support member(450). Such reduction in deflection may be particularly desirable if anoperator is attempting to insert a combined obturator (90) and targetingcannula (70) along a straight line into dense tissue.

In the present example, support member (450) is rigidly secured tocradle (400). In particular, each support arm (410, 420) has a supportmember rail (460) extending therefrom. Support member (450) has acomplementary recess (462), such that support member (450) may be slidonto either rail (460). While support member rail (460) and recess (462)have complementary “L” shapes in this example, it should be understoodthat any other suitable shape may be used. Furthermore, while cannulamount (306) and support member (450) are shown as being coupled withsupport arm (410) in this example, it should be understood that cannulamount (306) and/or support member (450) may alternatively be coupledwith support arm (420). In some other versions, support member (450) isconfigured to selectively pivot relative to cradle (400) (e.g., to pivotit out of the way if z-stop (412) is advanced to a distal-mostposition). Of course, as with other components described herein, supportmember (450) is merely optional.

While exemplary features, components, configurations, and methods ofoperation for cradle (400) have been described above, it should beunderstood that any suitable alternatives may be used. Suitablealternative features, components, configurations, and methods ofoperation for cradle (400) will be apparent to those of ordinary skillin the art in view of the teachings herein.

III. Exemplary Ratcheting Cannula Mount

While several examples of cradles (500, 600, 700) will be discussedbelow in the context of either a detachable needle (30) or a targetingcannula (70), it should be understood that cradles (500, 600, 700) mayalso be used with the other of a detachable needle (30) or a targetingcannula (70). Furthermore, it should be understood that any of the belowdescribed cradles (500, 600, 700) may be subject to any desiredaddition, omission, variation, modification, substitution,supplementation, or method of use.

A. Exemplary Cannula Mount with Lower Release Button

FIGS. 15-18 depict another exemplary cradle (500), which has adetachable needle (30) coupled therewith. Cradle (500) of this exampleincludes unitary support arms (510, 520) that are substantiallyperpendicular to each other. Each support arm (510, 520) has a recess(502), which may slidingly engage a rail (108, 164) of pedestal (100),targeting grid assembly (150), or any other structure. A resilient arm(507) extends adjacent to recess (502), and includes a protrusion (508)that is configured to selectively secure cradle (500) relative to rail(108, 164). For instance, an operator may slide rail (108, 164) intoeither recess (502), and protrusion (508) may deflect away from rail(108, 164) then “snap” into a complementary recess (not shown) formed inrail (108, 164), such that protrusion (508) and the recess formed inrail (108, 164) restrict longitudinal motion of cradle (500) relative torail (108, 164). To remove cradle (500) from rail (108, 164), anoperator may simply lift arm (507) to disengage protrusion (508) fromthe recess formed in rail (108, 164), and pull cradle (500) away fromrail (108, 164). Of course, any other suitable components, features, orconfigurations may be used to selectively secure cradle (500) relativeto rail (108, 164).

Each support arm (510, 520) also has a mounting rail (504), with which acannula mount (306), needle mount (506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50)may be engaged. Rail (504) has a “T” shape in this example, though itshould be understood that any other suitable shape may be used.Furthermore, rail (504) may be substituted or supplemented with a recessor other structure or feature, if desired. As shown in FIGS. 16-17,needle mount (506) has a recess (561) that complements rail (504), suchthat rail (504) is slidingly received in recess (561) in this example.It should also be understood that a biopsy device (10, 50) may also havea recess (80) that complements rail (504), as will be described ingreater detail below. In such versions, sliding engagement of rail (504)with recess (80) may restrict movement of a biopsy device (10, 50)relative to cradle (500); and may also provide structural support forbiopsy device (10, 50). Rail (504) may also guide a needle-less biopsydevice (10) into engagement with thumbwheel (32), drive member (33), andsleeve (35) of detachable needle (30). Examples of such engagement, aswell as additional details and variations of such components, aredescribed in U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. [FBTDOCKET NO. 0021680.END6468USNP], entitled “BIOPSY DEVICE WITH SLIDINGCUTTER COVER,” filed on even date herewith, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein. However, it should be understood thata recess (80) of a biopsy device (10) need not necessarily be engagedwith the same rail (504) as needle mount (506), though they may beengaged with the same rail (504) in some instances.

A z-stop (512) is also coupled with cradle (500) in this example. Z-stop(512) has an arm (514) that has a pair of opposing rail engagementmembers (515). Z-stop (512) is coupled with a screw gear (516), whichhas a rotation knob (518). It will be appreciated that an operator maymanually rotate rotation knob (518) to selectively position z-stop (512)along the length of screw gear (516). By way of example only, z-stop(512) may be used to control the depth at which a needle (30) orcombined obturator (90) and targeting cannula (70) may be inserted intoa patient. For instance, before coupling a cannula mount (306), needlemount (506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50) with rail (504), an operatormay rotate knob (418) to set z-stop (412) at a desired longitudinalposition along screw gear (416). The operator may then slide a cannulamount (306), needle mount (506), or biopsy device (10, 50) along rail(504) until a cannula mount (306), needle mount (506), or biopsy device(10, 50) engages z-stop (512), which may prevent a cannula mount (306),needle mount (506), or biopsy device (10, 50) from being advanced anyfurther. Other mechanisms that may be used to restrict longitudinalmovement of a cannula mount (306), needle mount (506), and/or biopsydevice (10, 50) will be described in greater detail below, while othersuitable alternatives will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart in view of the teachings herein. It should also be understood thatz-stop (512) may be disengaged from one rail (504) and then be engagedwith another rail (504), in a manner similar to z-stop (212) asdiscussed above.

A support member (550) is also secured to the distal end of cradle(500). Support member (550) defines an opening (554) configured toreceive needle (30). Of course, a targeting cannula (70) or otherstructure may be inserted through opening (554). Support member (550)may provide additional support to needle (30) that is coupled withsupport member (550). For instance, support member (550) may reducedeflection of needle (30) when z-stop (512) (and, hence, needle mount(506)) is positioned relatively far from support member (550). Suchreduction in deflection may be particularly desirable if an operator isattempting to insert needle (30) along a straight line into densetissue. Support member (550) is shown as being removably coupled withsupport arm (510) in FIG. 15. However, it should be understood thatsupport member (550) may be removed by an operator and coupled withsupport arm (520) instead. Such removable coupling may be providedthrough a snap fit or any other suitable type of fit. Of course, as withother components described herein, support member (550) is merelyoptional.

Needle mount (506) of the present example has a ratcheting mechanism(560), which is operable to selectively secure the longitudinal positionof needle mount (506) along rail (504). Ratcheting mechanism (560)comprises an arm (562), which is pivotally secured to needle mount (506)by a pivot pin (563). Arm (562) includes a push-tab (566) at one end anda pawl (568) at the other end. Push-tab (566) is presented proximallybehind needle mount (506), such that a user may depress push-tab (566)to rotate arm (562) about pivot pin (563). Pawl (568) is configured toselectively engage teeth (505) of rail (504). In particular, pawl (568)is configured to “ride” over teeth (505) as needle mount (506) isadvanced distally along rail (504) (e.g., until needle mount (506)engages z-stop (512)); while restricting proximal longitudinal motion ofneedle mount (506) along rail (504). A spring (570) is positioned abovepawl (568), and is biased to urge pawl (568) into engagement with teeth(505). Of course, ratcheting mechanism (560) may have any other suitablecomponents, features, configurations, or methods of operation.

In a merely exemplary use, an operator is provided with a needle (30),which is coupled with a needle mount (506), but which is separate from acradle (500). The operator rotates knob (518) to translate z-stop (512)along screw gear (516), thereby setting a depth of insertion for needle(30). The operator then slides needle mount (506) onto rail (504), whileguiding tip (34) of needle (30) through opening (554) of support member(550). The operator continues to translate needle mount (506) along rail(504) until needle mount (506) engages z-stop (512). As needle mount(506) is translated along rail (504), pawl (568) rides over teeth (505)under the bias of spring (570). The operator then couples a biopsydevice (10) with needle (30) and obtains a desired number of tissuesamples. When the operator needs to move needle mount (506) proximallyalong rail (504), such as to provide a shallower depth of insertion orto remove needle mount (506) from cradle (500), the operator depressespush-tab (556) to disengage pawl (568) from teeth (505). Arm (562)pivots about pivot pin (563) and spring (570) compresses as operatorholds down push-tab (556). While holding push-tab (556) down, theoperator may then pull needle mount (506) proximally along rail (504),if not pull needle mount (506) completely off of cradle (500).

While exemplary features, components, configurations, and methods ofoperation for cradle (500) have been described above, it should beunderstood that any suitable alternatives may be used. Suitablealternative features, components, configurations, and methods ofoperation for cradle (500) will be apparent to those of ordinary skillin the art in view of the teachings herein.

B. Exemplary Cannula Mount with Upper Release Button

FIGS. 19-20 depict yet another exemplary cradle (600), which includes aratcheting mount (660) coupled therewith. Cradle (600) of this exampleincludes unitary support arms (610, 620) that are substantiallyperpendicular to each other. Each support arm (610, 620) has a recess(602), which may slidingly engage a rail (108, 164) of pedestal (100),targeting grid assembly (150), or any other structure. A resilient arm(607) extends adjacent to recess (602), and includes a protrusion (notshown) that is configured to selectively secure cradle (600) relative torail (108, 164). Cradle (600) may thus be selectively coupled with ordecoupled from a rail (108, 164) in a manner similar to other cradles(300, 400, 500) described above. Of course, any other suitablecomponents, features, or configurations may be used to selectivelysecure cradle (600) relative to rail (108, 164).

Each support arm (610, 620) also has a mounting rail (604), with which acannula mount (306), needle mount (506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50)may be engaged. Rail (604) has a “T” shape in this example, though itshould be understood that any other suitable shape may be used.Furthermore, rail (604) may be substituted or supplemented with a recessor other structure or feature, if desired. As shown in FIG. 20,ratcheting mount (660) has a recess (661) that complements rail (604),such that rail (604) is slidingly received in recess (661) in thisexample. It should also be understood that a biopsy device (10, 50) mayalso have a recess (80) that complements rail (604), as will bedescribed in greater detail below. In such versions, sliding engagementof rail (604) with recess (80) may restrict movement of a biopsy device(10, 50) relative to cradle (600); and may also provide structuralsupport for biopsy device (10, 50). However, it should be understoodthat a recess (80) of a biopsy device (10, 50) need not necessarily beengaged with the same rail (604) as ratcheting mount (660), though theymay be engaged with the same rail (604) in some instances.

A z-stop (612) is also coupled with cradle (600) in this example. Z-stop(612) has an arm (614) that has a rail engagement member (615). Z-stop(612) is coupled with a screw gear (616), which may be coupled with arotation knob (not shown). It will be appreciated that an operator maymanually rotate such a rotation knob to selectively position z-stop(612) along the length of screw gear (616). Z-stop (612) may thus beoperated in a manner similar to other z-stops (212, 312, 412, 512) asdescribed above. For instance, an operator may slide ratcheting mount(660) along rail (604) until ratcheting mount (660) engages z-stop(612), which may prevent a ratcheting mount (660) from being advancedany further. Other mechanisms that may be used to restrict longitudinalmovement of a ratcheting mount (660), cannula mount (306), needle mount(506), and/or biopsy device (10, 50) will be described in greater detailbelow, while other suitable alternatives will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. It shouldalso be understood that z-stop (612) may be disengaged from one rail(604) and then be engaged with another rail (604), in a manner similarto z-stop (212) as discussed above.

A support member (not shown) may also be secured to the distal end ofcradle (600), if desired. Such a support member may have components,features, and methods of operation similar to support members (220, 350,450, 550) described above.

Ratcheting mount (660) of the present example includes a thumbwheel(662), a push-member (670), and a ratcheting lever (680). A needle (30),targeting cannula (70), or any other device may be coupled withratcheting mount (660). For instance, a needle (30) or targeting cannula(70) may protrude distally through opening (664) formed in ratchetingmount (660), and may couple with thumbwheel (662) in any suitablefashion (e.g., removable coupling, as described herein, etc.).Ratcheting lever (680) of this example includes a pawl (682), which isconfigured to selectively engage teeth (605) of rail (604). Inparticular, pawl (682) is configured to “ride” over teeth (605) asratcheting mount (660) is advanced distally along rail (604) (e.g.,until ratcheting mount (660) engages z-stop (612)); while restrictingproximal longitudinal motion of ratcheting mount (660) along rail (604).A spring (not shown) is positioned above pawl (682), and is biased tourge pawl (682) into engagement with teeth (605).

A pair of upright members (674) extend downwardly from push-member (670)in this example. In particular, upright members (674) are receivedthrough slots (666) formed in ratcheting mount (660), and engage a firstend of ratcheting lever (680). This first end is opposite to the end ofratcheting lever (680) presenting pawl (682). A pivot pin (not shown) isinserted through ratcheting lever (680), between these two ends.Ratcheting lever (680) may thus operate similar to arm (562), asdescribed above. In will also be understood that push-member (670) mayoperate similar to push-tab (556) described above.

In a merely exemplary use, an operator is provided with a ratchetingmount (660), which is separate from a cradle (600). The operator rotatesscrew gear (616) to translate z-stop (612) along screw gear (616),thereby setting a depth of insertion for a needle (30) or targetingcannula (70) that will be coupled with ratcheting mount (660). Theoperator then slides ratcheting mount (660) onto rail (604), andcontinues to translate ratcheting mount (660) along rail (604) untilratcheting mount (660) engages z-stop (612). As ratcheting mount (660)is translated along rail (604), pawl (682) rides over teeth (605) underthe bias of a spring (not shown). The operator then couples a biopsydevice (10, 50) and a needle (30) or targeting cannula (70) withratcheting mount (660) and with cradle (600), and obtains a desirednumber of tissue samples. When the operator needs to move ratchetingmount (660) proximally along rail (604), such as to provide a shallowerdepth of insertion or to remove ratcheting mount (660) from cradle(600), the operator depresses push-member (670) to disengage pawl (682)from teeth (605). Ratcheting lever (680) pivots about a pivot pin (notshown) and a spring (not shown) compresses as operator holds downpush-member (670). While holding push-member (670) down, the operatormay then pull ratcheting mount (660) proximally along rail (604), if notpull ratcheting mount (660) completely off of cradle (600).

While exemplary features, components, configurations, and methods ofoperation for cradle (600) have been described above, it should beunderstood that any suitable alternatives may be used. Suitablealternative features, components, configurations, and methods ofoperation for cradle (600) will be apparent to those of ordinary skillin the art in view of the teachings herein.

C. Exemplary Cannula Mount with Side Release Button

FIGS. 21-24 depict yet another exemplary cradle (700), which includesanother exemplary ratcheting mount (760) coupled therewith. Cradle (700)of this example includes unitary support arms (710, 720) that aresubstantially perpendicular to each other. Support arm (710) has arecess (702), which may slidingly engage a rail (108, 164) of pedestal(100), targeting grid assembly (150), or any other structure. Aresilient arm (707) extends adjacent to recess (702), and includes aprotrusion (708) that is configured to selectively secure cradle (700)relative to rail (108, 164). Cradle (700) may thus be selectivelycoupled with or decoupled from a rail (108, 164) in a manner similarcradle (200) described above. Of course, any other suitable components,features, or configurations may be used to selectively secure cradle(700) relative to rail (108, 164).

Support arm (710) has a mounting rail (704), while support arm (720) hasa mounting recess (705). A cannula mount (306), needle mount (506),and/or biopsy device (10, 50) may be engaged with either or both ofmounting rail (704) or mounting recess (705). Mounting rail (704) andmounting recess (705) each have a “T” shape in this example, though itshould be understood that any other suitable shape may be used.Furthermore, mounting rail (704) and/or mounting recess (705) may besubstituted or supplemented with a recess or other structure or feature,if desired. As shown in FIG. 22, ratcheting mount (760) has a recess(761) that complements rail (704), such that rail (704) is slidinglyreceived in recess (761) in this example. It should also be understoodthat a biopsy device (10, 50) may also have a recess (80) thatcomplements mounting rail (704); and/or a rail that complements mountingrecess (705). In such versions, sliding engagement of mounting rail(704) with recess (80), or sliding reengagement of a recess withmounting rail (705), may restrict movement of a biopsy device (10, 50)relative to cradle (700); and may also provide structural support forbiopsy device (10, 50). However, it should be understood that a recess(80) of a biopsy device (10, 50) need not necessarily be engaged withthe same mounting rail (704) as ratcheting mount (760) (e.g., biopsydevice (10, 50) may instead be engaged with mounting recess (705)),though they may both be engaged with the same mounting rail (704) insome instances.

As shown in FIGS. 23-24, rail (704) includes a plurality of teeth (705)along its backside. Teeth (705) are configured to engage pawls (768) aswill be described in greater detail below. Rail (704) also includes alocking pawl (780), which is configured to restrict proximal movement ofratcheting mount (760) along rail (704). In particular, locking pawl(780) is pivotally mounted on a pin (782), about which locking pawl(780) may rotate. A torsion spring (784) is positioned about pin (782),and is engaged with locking pawl (780) and with rail (704). Torsionspring (784) is configured to bias locking pawl (780) outwardly relativeto rail (704). It will be appreciated in view of FIGS. 23-24 that theconfiguration and orientation of locking pawl (780) may permitratcheting mount (760) to be advanced distally onto rail (704) whilepreventing ratcheting mount (760) from being pulled proximally off ofrail (704). In particular, locking pawl (780) may pivot out of the wayas ratcheting mount (760) is advanced onto rail (704) and past lockingpawl (780). After ratcheting mount (760) has “cleared” locking pawl(780), spring (784) may move locking pawl (780) back to its outwardlyoriented position. In order to pull ratcheting mount (760) backproximally off of rail (704) an operator may manually push locking pawl(780) back out of the way to permit ratcheting mount (760) to clearlocking pawl (780). It should be understood that a variety of otherfeatures, components, or configurations may be used to restrict proximalmovement of ratcheting mount (760), in addition to or in lieu of lockingpawl (780). It should also be understood that any other cradle (200,300, 400, 500, 600) described herein may include a locking pawl (780) ora similar feature. Of course, a locking pawl (780) may be omittedaltogether, if desired.

While not shown, it should be understood that cradle (700) may also beprovided with a z-stop. It should also be understood that ratchetingmount (760) may itself serve as a z-stop by restricting distal movementof a biopsy device (10, 50) or other component that is coupled withcradle (700). Similarly, a support member (not shown) may also besecured to the distal end of cradle (700), if desired. Such a supportmember may have components, features, and methods of operation similarto support members (220, 350, 450, 550) described above.

Ratcheting mount (760) of the present example includes a thumbwheel(761) and an arm (762), which is pivotally secured to ratcheting mount(760) by a pair of pivot pins (763). Arm (762) includes a push-tab (766)at one end and a pair of pawls (768) at the other end. Push-tab (766) ispresented lateral to ratcheting mount (760), such that a user maydepress push-tab (766) to rotate arm (762) about pivot pins (763). Pawls(768) are configured to selectively engage teeth (705) of rail (704). Inparticular, pawls (768) are configured to “ride” over teeth (705) asratcheting mount (760) is advanced distally along rail (704); whilerestricting proximal longitudinal motion of ratcheting mount (760) alongrail (704). Springs (770) are between push-tab (766), and are biased tourge pawls (768) into engagement with teeth (705). Of course, ratchetingmount (760) may have any other suitable components, features,configurations, or methods of operation.

In a merely exemplary use, an operator is provided with a ratchetingmount (760), which is separate from a cradle (700). The operator slidesratcheting mount (760) onto rail (704), and continues to translateratcheting mount (760) along rail (704) until reaching a desiredlongitudinal position along rail (704). As ratcheting mount (760) istranslated along rail (704), pawls (782) ride over teeth (705) under thebias of springs (770). The operator then couples a biopsy device (10,50) and a needle (30) or targeting cannula (70) with ratcheting mount(760) and with cradle (700), and obtains a desired number of tissuesamples. When the operator needs to move ratcheting mount (760)proximally along rail (704), such as to provide a shallower depth ofinsertion or to remove ratcheting mount (760) from cradle (700), theoperator depresses push-tab (766) to disengage pawls (782) from teeth(705) (FIG. 24). Arm (762) pivots about pivot pins (763) and springs(770) compress as operator holds down push-tab (766). While holdingpush-tab (766) down, the operator may then pull ratcheting mount (760)proximally along rail (704). To the extent that the operator wishes toremove ratcheting mount (760) from cradle (700), the operator may alsodepress locking pawl (780), to provide sufficient clearance to allowratcheting mount (760) to pass over locking pawl (780) as ratchetingmount (760) is pulled proximally off of rail (704).

While exemplary features, components, configurations, and methods ofoperation for cradle (700) have been described above, it should beunderstood that any suitable alternatives may be used. Suitablealternative features, components, configurations, and methods ofoperation for cradle (600) will be apparent to those of ordinary skillin the art in view of the teachings herein.

IV. Exemplary Coupling of Biopsy Probe with Cradle and Mount

FIGS. 25-26 and FIGS. 27-28 each depict a series showing a biopsy device(50, 75) engaging a cradle (800) and a cannula mount (306) in anexemplary fashion. For instance, in FIGS. 25-26, a biopsy probe (50) hasa mounting recess (80) and a pair of unitary distally extending mountingarms (81). As also shown in FIGS. 25-26, cradle (800) has a rail (804)that complements recess (80); while cannula mount (306) has a pair ofrecesses (305) that complement mounting arms (81). In particular, asbiopsy device (50) is advanced distally, rail (804) enters recess (80);

while arms (81) enter recesses (305). Biopsy device (50) continues to beadvanced until thumbwheel (60) couples with thumbwheel (72). Biopsydevice (50) is then supported by cradle (800) and pedestal (500).

It will be appreciated that having various areas of engagement mayprovide substantial support and rigid stabilization for biopsy device(50). In particular, biopsy device (50) may be supported and/orstabilized at least in part by engagement between the followingcomponents: needle (54) with cannula (70), thumbwheel (60) withthumbwheel (72), recess (80) with rail (804), and mounting arms (81)with recesses (305). It should also be understood that engagement may beprovided in several stages as biopsy device (50) is advanced towardcannula mount (306). For instance, in the present example, needle (54)engages cannula (70) first. Then recess (80) engages rail (804) asbiopsy device is advanced further. Then mounting arms (81) engagerecesses (305) as biopsy device (50) is advanced further still. Finally,thumbwheel (60) engages thumbwheel (72) as advancement of biopsy device(50) is completed. Substantial support and stabilization for biopsydevice (50) may be particularly desirable to the extent that all supportfor biopsy device (50) is being provided at the distal end of biopsydevice (50) in this example, and further considering that the center ofmass of biopsy device may be a substantial distance proximal to thedistal end of biopsy device (50). Such a distal positioning of thecenter of mass may create substantial stresses at support regions at thedistal end of biopsy device (50). Of course, biopsy device (50) may besupported and/or stabilized in a variety of other ways, in addition toor in lieu of those noted above.

As one mere example of how a biopsy device (75) may be otherwisesupported, FIGS. 27-28 show a biopsy device (75) that lacks mountingarms (81) yet has a mounting recess (80). As shown, as biopsy device(75) is advanced distally, rail (804) enters recess (80). Biopsy device(75) continues to be advanced until thumbwheel (60) couples withthumbwheel (72). Biopsy device (75) is then supported by cradle (800)and pedestal (500). Despite the absence of mounting arms (81), biopsydevice (75) still has various areas of engagement for support andstabilization in this example. In particular, biopsy device (75) may besupported and/or stabilized at least in part by engagement between thefollowing components: needle (54) with cannula (70), thumbwheel (60)with thumbwheel (72), and recess (80) with rail (804). It should also beunderstood that engagement may be provided in several stages as biopsydevice (75) is advanced toward cannula mount (306). For instance, in thepresent example, needle (54) engages cannula (70) first. Then recess(80) engages rail (804) as biopsy device is advanced further. Finally,thumbwheel (60) engages thumbwheel (72) as advancement of biopsy device(75) is completed. Of course, biopsy device (75) may be supported and/orstabilized in a variety of other ways, in addition to or in lieu ofthose noted above.

It should also be understood that, upon coupling of thumbwheels (60, 72)(or at any other suitable time or stage), needle (54) and cannula (70)may be rotated concomitantly. For instance, a user may manually rotatethumbwheel (62) of biopsy device (50). Such rotation may be communicatedalong a shaft (not shown) or other component to thumbwheel (62), whichmay in turn communicate such rotation to thumbwheel (72). A secureengagement between thumbwheel (72) and cannula (70) may furthercommunicate such rotation to cannula (70). Of course there are a varietyof other ways in which rotation may be communicated from a biopsy device(50, 75) to a targeting cannula (70).

Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that,while the examples depicted in FIGS. 25-28 include targeting cannulas(70) and biopsy devices (50, 75) that have an integral needle (54),similar methods of engagement may be provided for a biopsy device (10)that lacks an integral needle (54). For instance, biopsy device (10)shown in FIGS. 1-2 may include mounting arms (81) or similar features.Similarly, needle mount (506) may include recesses (305) that complementsuch mounting arms (81). Still other ways in which the teachings hereinmay be combined and interchanged among various examples will be apparentto those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

V. Exemplary Multi-Orientation Mounting of Targeting Cradle and CannulaMount

FIGS. 29A-29H show various orientations that may be achieved with atargeting grid assembly (150), cradle (400), and cannula mount (306).For instance, cradle (400) may be engaged with targeting grid assembly(150) in a variety of ways. Similarly, cannula mount (306) may beengaged with cradle (400) in a variety of ways. Such variouscombinations and arrangements may be desirable to optimize positioningin view of size or space constraints, access to thumbwheel (62), and/orin view of any other considerations. In particular, as shown in FIG.29A, recess (402 b) of cradle (400) may be engaged with rail (164 a) ofcarriage (162); while cannula mount (306) is engaged with rail (403 a)of cradle (400). A biopsy device (10, 50, 75) may be engaged with eitherrail (430 a, 430 b) of cradle (400) in this example.

As shown in FIG. 29B, recess (402 a) of cradle (400) may be engaged withrail (164 b) of carriage (162); while cannula mount (306) is engagedwith rail (430 b) of cradle (400). A biopsy device (10, 50, 75) may beengaged with either rail (430 a, 430 b) of cradle (400) in this example.

As shown in FIG. 29C, recess (402 b) of cradle (400) may be engaged withrail (164 a) of carriage (162); while cannula mount (306) is engagedwith rail (430 b) of cradle (400). A biopsy device (10, 50, 75) may beengaged with either rail (430 a, 430 b) of cradle (400) in this example.

As shown in FIG. 29D, recess (402 a) of cradle (400) may be engaged withrail (164 b) of carriage (162); while cannula mount (306) is engagedwith rail (430 a) of cradle (400). A biopsy device (10, 50, 75) may beengaged with either rail (430 a, 430 b) of cradle (400) in this example.

As shown in FIG. 29E, recess (402 a) of cradle (400) may be engaged withrail (164 a) of carriage (162); while cannula mount (306) is engagedwith rail (430 a) of cradle (400). A biopsy device (10, 50, 75) may beengaged with either rail (430 a, 430 b) of cradle (400) in this example.

As shown in FIG. 29F, recess (402 b) of cradle (400) may be engaged withrail (164 b) of carriage (162); while cannula mount (306) is engagedwith rail (430 b) of cradle (400). A biopsy device (10, 50, 75) may beengaged with either rail (430 a, 430 b) of cradle (400) in this example.

As shown in FIG. 29G, recess (402 a) of cradle (400) may be engaged withrail (162 a) of carriage (162); while cannula mount (306) is engagedwith rail (430 b) of cradle (400). A biopsy device (10, 50, 75) may beengaged with either rail (430 a, 430 b) of cradle (400) in this example.

As shown in FIG. 29H, recess (402 b) of cradle (400) may be engaged withrail (164 b) of carriage (162); while cannula mount (306) is engagedwith rail (430 a) of cradle (400). A biopsy device (10, 50, 75) may beengaged with either rail (430 a, 430 b) of cradle (400) in this example.

While the examples depicted in FIGS. 29A-29H include targeting gridassembly (150), it should be understood that the same variousorientations and combinations may be achieved using a platform (100) orother mounting structure. Similarly, while cradle (400) is depicted inFIGS. 29A-29H, it should be understood that various orientations andcombinations may be achieved using a variety of other cradles (200, 300,500, 600, 700, 800). Likewise, while cannula mount (306) is depicted inFIGS. 29A-29H, it should be understood that various orientations andcombinations may be achieved using a needle mount (506) or otherstructures. Still other combinations and variations will be apparent tothose of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Embodiments of the present invention have application in conventionalendoscopic and open surgical instrumentation as well as application inrobotic-assisted surgery.

Embodiments of the devices disclosed herein can be designed to bedisposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be usedmultiple times.

Embodiments may, in either or both cases, be reconditioned for reuseafter at least one use. Reconditioning may include any combination ofthe steps of disassembly of the device, followed by cleaning orreplacement of particular pieces, and subsequent reassembly. Inparticular, embodiments of the device may be disassembled, and anynumber of the particular pieces or parts of the device may beselectively replaced or removed in any combination. Upon cleaning and/orreplacement of particular parts, embodiments of the device may bereassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioning facility, orby a surgical team immediately prior to a surgical procedure. Thoseskilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioning of a device mayutilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning/replacement,and reassembly. Use of such techniques, and the resulting reconditioneddevice, are all within the scope of the present application.

By way of example only, embodiments described herein may be processedbefore surgery. First, a new or used instrument may be obtained and ifnecessary cleaned. The instrument may then be sterilized. In onesterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and sealedcontainer, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and instrumentmay then be placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate thecontainer, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electrons.The radiation may kill bacteria on the instrument and in the container.The sterilized instrument may then be stored in the sterile container.The sealed container may keep the instrument sterile until it is openedin a medical facility. A device may also be sterilized using any othertechnique known in the art, including but not limited to beta or gammaradiation, ethylene oxide, or steam.

Having shown and described various embodiments of the present invention,further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein may beaccomplished by appropriate modifications by one of ordinary skill inthe art without departing from the scope of the present invention.Several of such potential modifications have been mentioned, and otherswill be apparent to those skilled in the art. For instance, theexamples, embodiments, geometries, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps,and the like discussed above are illustrative and are not required.Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be considered interms of the following claims and is understood not to be limited to thedetails of structure and operation shown and described in thespecification and drawings.

1. A targeting set for use with a biopsy device, wherein the biopsydevice comprises a body and a needle extending from the body, whereinthe targeting set comprises: (a) a vertical member; (b) a carriage,wherein the carriage is vertically movable with respect to the verticalmember, wherein the carriage has a first elongate mounting rail; and (c)a cradle, wherein the cradle comprises: (i) a first mounting arm,wherein the first mounting arm has an elongate recess configured toreceive the first elongate mounting rail, wherein the first mounting armfurther has a biopsy device mounting feature, wherein the biopsy devicemounting feature is configured to removably couple with a portion of thebiopsy device, and (ii) a second mounting arm, wherein the secondmounting arm has an elongate recess configured to receive the firstelongate mounting rail, wherein the second mounting arm further has abiopsy device mounting feature, wherein the biopsy device mountingfeature is configured to removably couple with a portion of the biopsydevice, wherein the second arm is substantially perpendicular to thefirst mounting arm.
 2. The targeting set of claim 1, further comprisinga grid, wherein the vertical member is coupled with the grid.
 3. Thetargeting set of claim 1, further comprising a platform base, whereinthe vertical member extends from the platform base.
 4. The targeting setof claim 1, wherein the carriage has a second elongate mounting rail. 5.The targeting set of claim 4, wherein the elongate recess of the firstmounting arm and the elongate recess of the second mounting arm are eachconfigured to selectively receive either the first elongate mountingrail of the carriage or the second elongate mounting rail of thecarriage.
 6. The targeting set of claim 1, wherein the first mountingarm and the second mounting arm each comprise a snap fit featureadjacent to the respective elongate recess, wherein the snap fit featureis configured to restrict longitudinal movement of the respectivemounting arm relative to the first elongate mounting rail.
 7. Thetargeting set of claim 6, wherein the snap fit feature comprises aresilient arm and a protrusion extending from the resilient arm, whereinthe protrusion is configured to engage a recess formed on the firstelongate mounting rail.
 8. The targeting set of claim 1, wherein thebiopsy device mounting feature of the first mounting arm comprises anelongate recess.
 9. The targeting set of claim 1, wherein the biopsydevice mounting feature of the first mounting arm comprises a rail. 10.The targeting set of claim 9, wherein the biopsy device mounting featureof the second mounting arm comprises a recess.
 11. The targeting set ofclaim 9, wherein the rail has a T-shaped cross section.
 12. Thetargeting set of claim 1, wherein the first mounting arm issubstantially symmetric with the second mounting arm.
 13. The targetingset of claim 1, further comprising a mount coupled with the biopsydevice mounting feature of the first arm, wherein the mount is movablelongitudinally along the biopsy device mounting feature of the firstmounting arm.
 14. The targeting set of claim 13, further comprising atargeting cannula coupled with the mount, wherein the targeting cannulais configured to receive the needle of the biopsy device.
 15. Thetargeting set of claim 13, further comprising a z-top feature operableto selectively restrict the longitudinal distance to which the mount maybe moved along the biopsy device mounting feature of the first mountingarm.
 16. The targeting set of claim 15, wherein the z-stop feature isengaged with the biopsy device mounting feature of the first mountingarm.
 17. The targeting set of claim 15, wherein the mount is furtherconfigured to be decoupled from the biopsy device mounting feature ofthe first mounting arm and be coupled with the biopsy device mountingfeature of the second mounting arm.
 18. The targeting set of claim 17,wherein the z-stop feature is further operable to selectively restrictthe longitudinal distance to which the mount may be moved along thebiopsy device mounting feature of the second mounting arm.
 19. A cradleassembly for supporting a biopsy device, wherein the cradle assemblycomprises: (a) a first support member, wherein the first support memberhas an elongate recess configured to receive a rail, wherein the firstsupport member further has a biopsy device mounting feature, wherein thebiopsy device mounting feature is configured to removably engage aportion of the biopsy device; (b) a second support member, wherein thesecond support member has an elongate recess configured to receive arail, wherein the second support member further has a biopsy devicemounting feature, wherein the biopsy device mounting feature isconfigured to removably engage a portion of the biopsy device; and (c) amovement restriction member coupled with the biopsy device mountingfeature of the first support member, wherein the movement restrictionmember is configured to restrict longitudinal movement along the biopsydevice mounting feature of one or both of the first support member orthe second support member.
 20. A cradle assembly for supporting a biopsydevice, wherein the cradle assembly comprises: (a) a first supportmember, wherein the first support member has an elongate recessconfigured to receive a rail, wherein the first support member furtherhas a biopsy device mounting feature, wherein the biopsy device mountingfeature is configured to removably engage a portion of the biopsydevice; and (b) a second support member, wherein the second supportmember has an elongate recess configured to receive a rail, wherein thesecond support member further has a biopsy device mounting feature,wherein the biopsy device mounting feature is configured to removablyengage a portion of the biopsy device; wherein the first support memberand the second support member together define an angle having a vertex,wherein the first support member and the second support member aresubstantially symmetric about the vertex.